Have you ever felt like you needed a holiday from your holiday? Buzzing destinations are popular for a reason, but the crowds often make visiting them a stressful experience. Ironic, because isn’t ‘relaxation’ the most sought-after activity when going on holiday?
If you’d like to come home from your next holiday feeling properly recharged, then pitch up on one of our 10 favourite small, secluded campsites in Europe. All are peaceful holiday destinations, where you can stay in a serene setting and fully immerse yourself in the calm.
1. Camp Jelinc, Slovenia
Surrounded by the dramatic — and breathtaking — mountains of Slovenia’s Triglav National Park, Camp Jelinc is a beautiful little campsite nestled right on the banks of the Soča River. The river itself is something out of a vision, with water so brightly turquoise you won't believe your eyes. The campsite has only a small number of camping spots and basic amenities, which makes it a peaceful place in a well-loved corner of Slovenia.
2. Landgoed Mariahoeve, The Netherlands
Located in the province of Drenthe, which is home to some of the oldest and most beautiful woods of the country, campsite Landgoed Mariahoeve is a sanctuary for those looking for a serene camping experience. This nature campsite is open all year round, allowing you to enjoy its colourful woodland setting in all seasons. Swim in the onsite lake, build a crackling campfire and soak up the quiet.
3. Bedruthan Steps Campsite & Carpark, United Kingdom
Next on this carefully selected list of the most secluded campsites in Europe is a little gem on home turf. Considering this camping spot is located at the top of the Budruthan Steps, an iconic landmark on the north Cornish coast, the owners of Bedruthan Steps Campsite & Carpark have done an incredible job of keeping the site a peaceful and relaxing place. Watch the sunset over the Atlantic, build a campfire right on your pitch in a portable fire pit or unwind in the clifftop sauna, which makes a weekly appearance on the site.
4. Camping Chalets Lac des Settons, France
Another not-to-be-missed secluded campsite in Europe is Camping Chalets Lac des Settons. This French haven of tranquillity in the province of Burgundy is perched on the shore of the stunning Lake Settons, which is very loved among those who like to take to the water. The campsite itself is surrounded by nature, with spacious pitches from which you can enjoy a spectacular view of the lake or hop straight onto your paddle board.
5. Camping Maka, Belgium
Whether your ideal fill of nature is walking, swimming, mountain biking, fishing or canoeing, you can have it all at Camping Maka. Nature always comes first on this terraced campsite, which is located on the banks of the Belgian Semois River. Camping in this cosy little oasis is a pleasure for young and old, as there are so many different ways in which one can enjoy the surrounding scenery.
6. Fidden Farm, Scotland
If the main requirement for a calm campsite is it being secluded, then Fidden Farm is the spot for you. Hidden away in a remote corner of the already remote Scottish Isle of Mull, this campsite truly is a ‘wee slice of paradise’. Park up right next to the sea with unspoiled, sandy beaches a stone's throw away from your pitch. Enjoy swimming or paddle boarding in the shallow waters, or take the kids to explore the rock pools.
7. Camping de Lamas de Mouro, Portugal
Tucked away in a northeastern corner of Portugal, deep in the national park Peneda-Gerês, you’ll stumble upon the woody pitches of Camping de Lamas de Mouro. Whilst we recommend you don’t expect too much from the facilities, you’re unlikely to find a more quiet and secluded camping spot anywhere else in the country. The rugged, remote landscapes of Peneda-Gerês have a wild feel to them, which is reflected in the diversity of the park's natural dwellers which includes the Iberian wolf.
8. Camping Drei Spatzen, Germany
If you’re looking for a nature site in Germany to bring the little ones, head to Camping Drei Spatzen in Germany. This peaceful family campground is located in the forests of the Eifel, a low volcanic mountain range close to the Luxembourg border. There’s a natural playground next to a small stream which runs across the site where the kids can roam to their heart's desire, as well as plenty of picnic spots to enjoy the scenery together.
9. Camping Arolla, Switzerland
Mountain enthusiasts looking to pitch up amidst Switzerland's majestic peaks are encouraged to head to Camping Arolla, located in a strikingly beautiful alpine valley. At an altitude of 1950 meters, the daytime views don’t get more spectacular, and the night sky doesn’t get any clearer. Breathe fresh, pure mountain air, drink glacial water and reconnect with nature at this stunner of a site, from which you can explore the Valaisan Mountains in any way you please.
10. Camp Begovic / Veslo, Montenegro
Out of sight from the overrun banks of the Bay of Kotor, the humble campsite Camp Begovic / Veslo is tucked away in a far corner of a Montenegrin peninsula.
If you’re on a quest to find a peaceful holiday destination on the shores of the Adriatic Sea, this secluded site may well be exactly what you’re looking for. The shaded pitches of this small campsite are located within walking distance of a rocky stretch of coastline, whose cliffs and sea caves are a paradise if you love snorkelling or cliff jumping.
All of these small, secluded campsites have been selected specifically for those travelling in a campervan. So if you’re looking for a peaceful holiday alternative during which you can bring all the comforts of home with you, be sure to hire a motorhome for your next summer holiday.
The best hotel room has 4 wheels, after all!
